Top 49 Slang For Need – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing our needs, sometimes regular words just don’t cut it. That’s where slang comes in. Whether it’s for a basic necessity or a desperate craving, we’ve got you covered with this list of top slang for need. From the trendy to the timeless, we’ve gathered the most popular phrases that will have you speaking the language of necessity like a pro. So, get ready to up your slang game and never be at a loss for words when it comes to expressing your needs.

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1. Craving

A strong and intense desire or longing for something. It refers to a deep yearning or hunger for a specific thing or experience.

For example, “I have a craving for chocolate ice cream.”
A person might say, “I can’t resist my craving for pizza.”
Another might confess, “I have a craving for adventure and travel.”

2. Urges

Strong and powerful impulses or urges that drive someone to take action. It implies a strong and uncontrollable desire or need for something.

For instance, “I have urges to eat junk food when I’m stressed.”
A person might say, “I can’t control my urges to buy new clothes.”
Another might admit, “I have urges to check my phone constantly.”

3. Must-have

A term used to describe something that is considered essential or necessary. It refers to an item or experience that is highly desired or coveted.

For example, “The latest smartphone is a must-have for tech enthusiasts.”
A person might say, “That designer handbag is a must-have for fashionistas.”
Another might exclaim, “The new gaming console is a must-have for gamers.”

4. Fix

To satisfy a strong craving or need for something. It refers to obtaining or achieving what is necessary to satisfy a desire or addiction.

For instance, “I need my morning coffee fix to start the day.”
A person might say, “I’m going for a run to get my exercise fix.”
Another might admit, “I’m craving a nicotine fix.”

5. Itch

A strong desire or craving for something that is difficult to ignore or resist. It implies a persistent and nagging need for a particular thing.

For example, “I have an itch for adventure and travel.”
A person might say, “I can’t ignore the itch to buy new gadgets.”
Another might confess, “I have an itch to try new experiences and push my boundaries.”

6. Jonesing

This slang term is used to describe a strong desire or craving for something, often related to an addiction or dependency. It can refer to a physical or psychological need.

For example, someone might say, “I’m jonesing for a cigarette right now.”
In a conversation about a favorite food, someone might say, “I’ve been jonesing for some pizza all day.”
A person struggling with a substance addiction might say, “I’ve been jonesing for a fix for weeks now.”

7. Gotta have it

This slang phrase is used to express a strong need or desire for something. It implies a sense of urgency and importance.

For instance, someone might say, “I saw those shoes in the store and I just gotta have them.”
In a discussion about a limited edition item, someone might say, “It’s a collector’s item, I gotta have it.”
A person might say, “I’m craving ice cream, I gotta have it right now.”

8. Hunger

This word refers to the physical need or desire for food. It is used to describe the feeling of emptiness or discomfort in the stomach when one hasn’t eaten for a while.

For example, someone might say, “I skipped breakfast and now I’m feeling hunger.”
In a conversation about dieting, someone might say, “I’m trying to control my hunger by eating smaller meals.”
A person might say, “I haven’t eaten all day, I’m feeling intense hunger.”

9. Thirst

This word refers to the physical need or desire for liquid, usually water. It is used to describe the feeling of dryness or discomfort in the throat and mouth when one is dehydrated.

For instance, someone might say, “After a long workout, I’m feeling thirst.”
In a discussion about staying hydrated, someone might say, “Drinking water helps quench thirst.”
A person might say, “I forgot my water bottle, now I’m feeling intense thirst.”

10. Longing

This word describes a strong and deep desire for something or someone. It implies a sense of yearning and longing for fulfillment.

For example, someone might say, “I have a longing to travel the world.”
In a conversation about missing someone, someone might say, “I’m longing to see my family again.”
A person might say, “I have a longing for success in my career.”

11. Yen

Yen is a slang term used to describe a strong desire or craving for something. It is often used to express a longing or yearning for something that one wants or needs.

For example, “I have a yen for chocolate ice cream right now.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling a yen to travel lately.”
Another might say, “I have a yen for adventure and new experiences.”

12. Hankering

Hankering is a slang term used to describe a strong desire or longing for something. It often implies a persistent or intense craving for something.

For instance, “I have a hankering for some pizza.”
A person might say, “I’ve had a hankering for a beach vacation.”
Another might say, “I’ve had a hankering to try skydiving.”

13. Pining

Pining is a slang term used to describe a strong longing or yearning for something or someone. It often implies a deep emotional longing or desire.

For example, “I’ve been pining for my ex lately.”
A person might say, “I’ve been pining for a simpler time.”
Another might say, “I’ve been pining for some peace and quiet.”

14. Burning desire

Burning desire is a slang term used to describe an intense and passionate longing for something. It conveys a strong and fervent desire for something or someone.

For instance, “He has a burning desire to succeed in his career.”
A person might say, “I have a burning desire to travel the world.”
Another might say, “She has a burning desire to make a difference in the world.”

15. Crave

Crave is a slang term used to describe a strong desire or yearning for something. It conveys a strong and intense longing for something that one wants or needs.

For example, “I’m craving some chocolate right now.”
A person might say, “I’ve been craving a vacation.”
Another might say, “I’m craving some quality time with my loved ones.”

16. Yearn

To have a strong desire or longing for something or someone.

For example, “I yearn for the day when I can travel again.”
A person might say, “I yearn for a sense of purpose in my life.”
In a song lyric, one might express, “I yearn to be free from this pain.”

17. Covet

To desire or want something that belongs to someone else.

For instance, “She covets her neighbor’s new car.”
A person might say, “I can’t help but covet his success.”
In a conversation about fashion, one might admit, “I covet that designer handbag.”

18. It’s a must

Something that is absolutely necessary or required.

For example, “Wearing a mask in public is a must during a pandemic.”
A person might say, “It’s a must to have a reliable internet connection for remote work.”
In a recipe, one might read, “Using fresh ingredients is a must for this dish.”

19. Got to have it

To strongly desire or feel the need to possess something.

For instance, “I got to have that new smartphone.”
A person might say, “I got to have it to complete my collection.”
In a discussion about fashion trends, one might exclaim, “That dress is so stylish, I got to have it!”

20. In dire need

To be in a situation where something is urgently required or necessary.

For example, “The victims of the natural disaster are in dire need of food and shelter.”
A person might say, “I’m in dire need of a vacation.”
In a charity appeal, one might read, “The homeless community is in dire need of warm clothing.”

21. Desperation

Desperation refers to a state of extreme need or urgency. It often implies a feeling of hopelessness or despair.

For example, someone might say, “I’m in desperation for a job. I’ve been searching for months with no luck.”
In a discussion about financial struggles, a person might express, “The desperation to make ends meet is overwhelming.”
A person experiencing a health crisis might exclaim, “I’m in desperation for medical treatment. I can’t afford it on my own.”

22. Essential

Essential means something that is absolutely necessary or vital. It refers to something that is required or indispensable.

For instance, in a survival situation, water and shelter are essential for survival.
A person might say, “Sleep is essential for maintaining good health.”
In a discussion about packing for a trip, someone might advise, “Make sure to pack the essential items you’ll need.”

23. Necessity

Necessity refers to something that is required or indispensable. It implies that something is needed or essential for a particular purpose.

For example, food and water are basic necessities for human survival.
A person might say, “Education is a necessity for a successful career.”
In a conversation about personal safety, someone might stress, “Self-defense skills are a necessity in today’s world.”

24. Must

Must is a term used to express something that is mandatory or obligatory. It indicates a strong requirement or necessity.

For instance, a sign might say, “All visitors must wear a mask.”
A person might say, “I must finish this project by the end of the day.”
In a conversation about rules and regulations, someone might state, “Obeying traffic laws is a must for every driver.”

25. Urgency

Urgency refers to a sense of pressing importance or immediate need. It implies that something requires immediate attention or action.

For example, a doctor might say, “This patient’s condition requires urgent medical attention.”
A person might exclaim, “There’s an urgency to find a solution to climate change before it’s too late.”
In a discussion about deadlines, someone might emphasize, “The urgency to complete this project cannot be underestimated.”

26. Wanting

This term refers to a strong desire or longing for something that is currently unavailable. It is often used to express a deep longing or craving for something.

For example, “I’m wanting a slice of pizza so bad right now.”
A person might say, “I’m wanting to travel the world and explore new cultures.”
Another might express their desire for a promotion by saying, “I’m wanting that corner office.”

27. Yearning

This slang term is used to describe a strong and persistent longing or desire for something or someone. It often conveys a sense of intense longing or craving.

For instance, “I’m yearning for a sense of adventure and exploration.”
A person might say, “I’m yearning for the day when I can retire and travel the world.”
Another might express their yearning for love by saying, “I’m yearning for a deep and meaningful connection.”

28. Aching

This term is used to describe a deep and intense desire or longing for something or someone. It conveys a sense of emotional or physical pain caused by the unfulfilled desire.

For example, “I’m aching for a vacation and some time away from work.”
A person might say, “I’m aching for a meaningful and fulfilling relationship.”
Another might express their aching for success by saying, “I’m aching for the day when all my hard work pays off.”

29. Thirsting

This slang term is used to describe a strong and intense desire or craving for something. It is often used in a metaphorical sense to express a strong longing or craving for a particular experience or outcome.

For instance, “I’m thirsting for success and recognition in my career.”
A person might say, “I’m thirsting for adventure and new experiences.”
Another might express their thirsting for knowledge by saying, “I’m thirsting for wisdom and intellectual growth.”

30. Itching

This term is used to describe a strong and intense desire or eagerness for something. It conveys a sense of restlessness or impatience caused by the unfulfilled desire.

For example, “I’m itching to start my new job and make a positive impact.”
A person might say, “I’m itching to travel and explore new cultures.”
Another might express their itching for success by saying, “I’m itching to achieve my goals and prove myself.”

31. Hungering

This term refers to a strong desire or craving for something, often food or a specific item. It implies a deep longing or yearning for fulfillment.

For example, “After a long day at work, I was hungering for a slice of pizza.”
A person might say, “I’ve been hungering for a vacation for months now.”
In a discussion about a new gadget, someone might comment, “I’ve been hungering for that new smartphone since it was announced.”

32. Lusting

This slang term describes a strong and intense desire for something or someone. It often implies a sexual or passionate longing.

For instance, “He couldn’t take his eyes off her; he was lusting after her.”
A person might say, “I’ve been lusting after that sports car for years.”
In a conversation about a celebrity, someone might comment, “I’ve been lusting after him since I saw him in that movie.”

33. Desire

This term refers to a strong feeling of wanting or wishing for something. It can be used in a variety of contexts and implies a strong emotional or physical need.

For example, “She had a burning desire to succeed in her career.”
A person might say, “I desire a life filled with adventure and travel.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might comment, “Physical desire is an important aspect of a romantic partnership.”

34. Coveting

This term describes a strong desire or longing for something that belongs to someone else. It implies a sense of envy or jealousy towards the person who possesses the desired item or quality.

For instance, “She couldn’t help but covet her friend’s new designer handbag.”
A person might say, “I’ve been coveting my neighbor’s beautiful garden.”
In a conversation about success, someone might comment, “I’ve been coveting his promotion for months now.”

35. Impulse

This slang term refers to a sudden and strong urge or desire to do something. It implies acting on an instinct or without much thought or consideration.

For example, “I had an impulse to buy that dress even though I didn’t need it.”
A person might say, “I had an impulse to go skydiving and booked a ticket on the spot.”
In a discussion about decision-making, someone might comment, “It’s important to consider the consequences before acting on impulse.”

36. Compulsion

Compulsion refers to a strong, irresistible urge or desire to do something, often leading to repetitive or obsessive behavior.

For example, someone with a compulsion for cleanliness might feel the need to constantly clean and organize their surroundings.
In a conversation about addictive behaviors, one might say, “He has a compulsion to check his phone every five minutes.”
A person discussing mental health might explain, “Compulsions are often associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and can be distressing for the individual experiencing them.”

37. Urge

An urge is a strong desire or impulse to do something. It often implies a sudden or intense need for gratification or satisfaction.

For instance, someone might have an urge to eat chocolate when they see it.
In a discussion about self-control, one might say, “Resisting the urge to procrastinate can be challenging.”
A person talking about romantic relationships might share, “I had the urge to call my ex, but I resisted and focused on moving forward.”

38. Want

Want refers to a strong desire or wish for something. It implies a longing or craving for something that is currently not possessed.

For example, someone might say, “I want to travel the world and experience different cultures.”
In a conversation about material possessions, one might say, “She always wants the latest gadgets and fashion trends.”
A person discussing career goals might share, “I want to become a successful entrepreneur and make a positive impact in the business world.”

39. Urgent

Urgent refers to a situation or need that requires immediate attention, action, or response. It implies a sense of importance and time sensitivity.

For instance, someone might say, “I have an urgent deadline and need to finish this report by the end of the day.”
In a discussion about medical emergencies, one might say, “The patient’s condition is critical and requires urgent medical intervention.”
A person talking about personal safety might advise, “If you ever feel unsafe or threatened, call for help immediately. It’s important to prioritize your urgent needs.”

40. Fixation

Fixation refers to an obsession or preoccupation with a particular person, object, or idea. It implies a persistent and often irrational focus on something.

For example, someone might have a fixation on a celebrity, collecting every piece of memorabilia related to them.
In a conversation about psychology, one might say, “Freud believed that fixations during childhood can influence adult behavior.”
A person discussing creative pursuits might share, “I have a fixation on capturing the perfect photograph and spend hours experimenting with different techniques.”

41. Starvation

A state of extreme hunger and malnutrition, often resulting from a lack of food or resources. “Starvation” is a slang term used to emphasize a strong need for food or sustenance.

For example, a person might say, “I’m so hungry, I’m practically in starvation mode.”
In a discussion about poverty and hunger, someone might mention, “Many children around the world suffer from chronic starvation.”
A person describing their intense hunger might say, “I haven’t eaten all day, I’m on the brink of starvation.”

42. Deprivation

A state of not having enough of something, often referring to basic necessities or essential resources. “Deprivation” is a slang term used to express a strong need or longing for something.

For instance, someone might say, “I’m experiencing sleep deprivation, I need some rest.”
In a conversation about material possessions, a person might mention, “Growing up in poverty, I experienced constant deprivation.”
A person expressing their desire for something might say, “I’m feeling a serious deprivation of chocolate right now.”

43. Demand

A strong desire or need for something. “Demand” is a slang term used to express a strong craving or requirement for a particular item or experience.

For example, someone might say, “I’m in high demand for a good cup of coffee.”
In a discussion about popular products, a person might mention, “The latest smartphone is in high demand.”
A person expressing their strong desire for something might say, “I’m in desperate demand for a vacation.”

44. Crucial

Extremely important or necessary. “Crucial” is a slang term used to emphasize the importance or necessity of something.

For instance, someone might say, “Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall health.”
In a conversation about job skills, a person might mention, “Time management is crucial for success in the workplace.”
A person emphasizing the importance of something might say, “It’s crucial that we address climate change for the future of our planet.”

45. Craver

Someone who strongly desires or craves something. “Craver” is a slang term used to describe a person who has a strong need or longing for a particular item or experience.

For example, someone might say, “I’m a chocolate craver, I can’t resist it.”
In a discussion about addictive substances, a person might mention, “Nicotine can turn someone into a lifelong smoker and craver.”
A person describing their intense desire for something might say, “I’m a pizza craver, I could eat it every day.”

46. Desirous

Desirous is a term used to describe a strong feeling of wanting or longing for something. It conveys a sense of intense desire or craving.

For example, “I am desirous of a vacation after working long hours.”
A person might say, “I feel desirous of a slice of pizza right now.”
In a romantic context, someone might express, “I am desirous of being in a loving relationship.”

47. Necessitate

Necessitate is a verb that means to require or make something necessary. It implies that a certain action or condition is essential or unavoidable.

For instance, “The heavy rain necessitated the use of an umbrella.”
A person might say, “The complexity of the project necessitated the need for additional resources.”
In a medical context, a doctor might say, “Your condition necessitates immediate surgery.”

48. Require

Require is a verb that means to need or demand something. It indicates that a certain action or condition is necessary or obligatory.

For example, “This job requires a high level of proficiency in computer programming.”
A person might say, “The assignment requires careful attention to detail.”
In a legal context, a lawyer might state, “The court requires all witnesses to swear an oath before testifying.”

49. Lack

Lack is a verb that means to not have or be without something that is needed or desired. It indicates a deficiency or absence of something.

For instance, “I lack the necessary funds to purchase a new car.”
A person might say, “I lack the motivation to exercise regularly.”
In a professional context, someone might state, “The team lacks the necessary skills to complete the project successfully.”